Bill > HB1156

This bill modifies the structure and composition of the Maryland Parole Commission by increasing its membership from 10 to between 15 and 20 members and changing the appointment process. Under the new provisions, the Governor will appoint commissioners from a panel of nominees that includes representatives from various state agencies, professional organizations, and public stakeholders, such as the Public Defender, state's attorneys, mental health service providers, and prisoners' rights advocates. The panel must submit at least three qualified nominees for each commissioner vacancy, though this requirement applies only to initial terms. Commissioners must be Maryland residents with professional backgrounds in areas like law, psychology, or social work, and they are required to work full-time without conflicting employment. The bill also eliminates the previous provision allowing the Commission to appoint and utilize hearing examiners, effectively requiring commissioners to conduct all parole hearings directly. This change means that parole release decisions will now be made exclusively by commissioners, with specific voting requirements for different types of cases, such as requiring at least six affirmative votes for individuals sentenced to life imprisonment. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and includes a provision redirecting funds previously allocated for hearing examiner salaries to parole commissioner salaries.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1156?ys=2025RS